10 Easy Steps to Make Roasted Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese: What to Eat with Tomato Soup
Tomato soup and grilled cheese—it’s a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, this classic duo never fails to deliver. But there’s more to it than just slapping some bread and cheese together or opening a can of soup. In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare homemade roasted tomato soup and a perfectly crispy grilled cheese, along with some great side dish ideas to elevate the entire experience.
Let’s dive into these easy-to-follow steps and uncover the secrets to making a meal you’ll return to time and time again.
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Why Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Are the Perfect Pair
This classic combination has endured for good reason. Imagine biting into a golden, buttery grilled cheese sandwich, its gooey center oozing out with each bite, then dipping it into a creamy, flavorful bowl of tomato soup. It’s a harmony of flavors—savory, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Grilled cheese offers the crunch and richness that complements the soup’s velvety texture. Together, they form a well-rounded meal that delights your taste buds and warms your soul. Plus, with tomatoes being packed with vitamins like C and K and cheese providing calcium, this dish isn’t just indulgent—it’s nutritious too.
Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to have all the right ingredients on hand. Here’s everything you’ll need to make roasted tomato soup and grilled cheese from scratch.
Roasted Tomato Soup Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh tomatoes | 6 large | Roma or plum tomatoes are best. |
| Onion | 1 large | Sliced for roasting. |
| Garlic cloves | 4 | Adds depth of flavor. |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | For roasting and blending. |
| Vegetable stock | 3 cups | Adjust for desired thickness. |
| Basil leaves | Handful | Fresh basil for garnish. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Essential seasoning. |
Grilled Cheese Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sourdough bread | 4 slices | Or use your favorite bread. |
| Cheddar cheese | 4 slices | Swap with Gouda or mozzarella if preferred. |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Softened for spreading. |
10 Easy Steps to Make Roasted Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients. Rinse the tomatoes and basil leaves, peel the garlic, and slice the onion. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes, Onion, and Garlic
Place the tomatoes, onion slices, and garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Roast them in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until they become tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 3: Blend the Roasted Ingredients
Once roasted, transfer the tomatoes, onion, and garlic to a blender or use an immersion blender in a pot. Add vegetable stock and blend until smooth.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Pour the blended mixture into a large pot. Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Add fresh basil and adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Prepare the Bread for Grilled Cheese
Generously spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This ensures a golden, crispy crust.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Place a slice of cheese between two pieces of bread, with the buttered sides facing outward.
Step 7: Cook the Grilled Cheese
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bottom is golden brown. Flip carefully and cook the other side until the cheese melts completely.
Step 8: Serve the Soup and Sandwich
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve alongside the grilled cheese sandwich, cut into halves or quarters for easy dipping.
Step 9: Add Side Dishes
Pair your meal with a light salad, crunchy croutons, or roasted vegetables for a complete dining experience.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Sit back, savor the flavors, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food.
What to Serve with Tomato Soup
While tomato soup and grilled cheese are a perfect pair on their own, adding complementary sides can take your meal to the next level.
Crackers or Croutons
Sprinkle homemade or store-bought croutons into your soup for added texture. Alternatively, serve with crispy crackers on the side.
Fresh Side Salad
A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and sandwich.
Roasted Vegetables
Try roasted asparagus, carrots, or zucchini for a healthy and flavorful addition.
Fruit Plate
A selection of fresh fruits like apple slices, grapes, or berries provides a refreshing contrast to the meal.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, high-quality cheese, and artisan bread make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Roast for Depth of Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes, onion, and garlic enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky note.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or stir in a splash of cream for extra richness.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic, trying combinations like Gruyère and Brie can give your sandwich a gourmet touch.
- Low Heat for Grilled Cheese: Cooking on medium-low heat ensures the bread crisps without burning while the cheese melts perfectly.
FAQ: Common Questions About Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
What are the best cheeses for grilled cheese?
While cheddar is a popular choice, you can also use mozzarella, Gouda, Havarti, or a combination of cheeses for added flavor.
Can I make tomato soup ahead of time?
Yes! Tomato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
What else can I serve with tomato soup besides grilled cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try pairing tomato soup with garlic bread, a hearty sandwich, or even pasta.
Is roasted tomato soup healthy?
Absolutely! Tomatoes are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and lycopene, which supports heart health. By roasting the ingredients, you enhance the flavor without needing heavy creams or additives.
Conclusion
There you have it—a complete guide to making roasted tomato soup and grilled cheese, along with creative side dish ideas and helpful tips. This meal is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings comfort, flavor, and joy to your table.